Adoptions

Adoptions at PROCARE

PROCARE Western Cape offers expert adoption services through our accredited Adoption Unit, led by senior social workers recognised by the Department of Social Development. We conduct adoptions in full compliance with the Children’s Act, ensuring ethical practices and the best outcomes for children and families. Our social workers are also certified as Adoption Specialists by the South African Council of Social Service Professionals, highlighting their extensive experience and expertise in adoption services.

Our Adoption Team

The PROCARE Adoption Unit consists of dedicated, experienced, and accredited social workers in private practice, each specialising in adoption. Our team functions as a cohesive unit, pooling together a wealth of knowledge and skills to provide exceptional service. Driven by a passion for adoption work, our social workers bring their extensive expertise to support and guide families through every step of the adoption process.

All adoptions facilitated by PROCARE are conducted in strict compliance with the Children’s Act (Act 38 of 2005) as amended. We adhere to the prescribed guidelines and good practice standards set forth by the Department of Social Development and the South African Council for Social Service Professionals, ensuring that every adoption process is legally sound and ethically conducted.

Legal Requirements

Adoption Process

Prospective adoptive parents must undergo a thorough screening process in accordance with South African legislation. This comprehensive process includes several key steps:

  1. Recruitment: Our mission is not to find a child for a family, but to find a suitable family for a child.

  2. Application: Prospective parents submit an application to initiate the process.

  3. Information Session (Orientation): Attending an orientation session to understand the adoption process and requirements.

  4. Receipt of Required Adoption Documents: Gathering and submitting all necessary documentation for adoption.

  5. Contacting References: Contacting friends and family to obtain references and gather insights into the applicants' suitability for adoption.

  6. Pre-Screening Assessments: Initial evaluations to determine suitability for adoption.

  7. Screening Process and Environmental Study (Home Visit): In-depth assessments, including home visits, to ensure a safe and nurturing environment.

  8. Adoption Workshops: Participating in compulsory workshops focussed on emotional preparation, attachment, and lifestory work.

  9. Panel Meeting: Review by an adoption panel to discuss and approve the prospective parents' suitability.

  10. Matching and Preparation for Placement: Matching the adoptive parents with a child and preparing both parties for the placement.

  11. Court Attendance and Placement of Baby: Legal proceedings and the official placement of the child with the adoptive parents.

  12. Finalisation and Post-Adoption Services: Completing the legal adoption process and providing ongoing support and resources for the adoptive family.

Recommended Requirements for the Screening of Prospective Adoptive Parents

The following guidelines assist our social workers in selecting suitable adoptive parents. If applicants do not meet these requirements, the individual merits of the application will be considered, ensuring the best interests of the adoptable child are served. Please note that if there is any doubt regarding the suitability of prospective adoptive parents in light of our guidelines, the social worker has the right to decline the application without providing reasons.

Age: Applicants should preferably be between the ages of 25-45, with an ideal age difference between partners not exceeding 15 years. However, we carefully consider the merits of each application, as we do not discriminate based on age; the candidate's ability to raise a child is paramount.

Marital Status: Applicants can be single, married, or living together for at least two years, though a minimum of five years is preferred.

Financial Aspects: Applicants must be financially independent, capable of supporting themselves and a child, and able to provide proof of financial stability.

Accommodation: Applicants should have suitable accommodation with sufficient space for a child.

Health: Applicants must be physically and mentally capable of caring for a child.

Family and Friends: Applicants must be willing to allow social workers to speak with family members and/or friends regarding the prospective adoption.

SAPS (SAPS 365) / National Child Protection Register (Form 30): Clearance is required.

Due to the current, limited availability of Caucasian and Indian babies for adoption in South Africa, we are not accepting new applications for these demographic groups at this time. We are currently processing adoption applications for children of Coloured, Mixed-Race, or Black ethnicity.

PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE CURRENTLY ONLY RENDERING ADOPTION SERVICES IN THE WESTERN CAPE